ABCs of Diabetes - Summit Health

Diabetes requires patients to work closely with docs to manage and maintain health. Make sure you know the ABCs of diabetes to lower your risk of having health problems. BMC’s Endocrinology Department is here to help! We are at the forefront of diabetes management. BMC was among the first clinics in the nation to implement insulin pump injections. We also counsel patients on ways to maintain or improve their health, encouraging health lifestyles as a means to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

A: A1c Test

“The A1C test is a common blood test used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes and gauge how well you’re managing your diabetes. The A1C test result reflects your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months. Specifically, the A1C test measures what percentage of your hemoglobin — a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen — is coated with sugar (glycated). The higher your A1C level, the poorer your blood sugar control and the higher your risk of diabetes complications” (Mayo Clinic, 2016).

B: Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is very common in individuals with diabetes. High blood pressure should be managed and discussed frequently with your doc. Blood pressure readings should be conducted at every routine visit to monitor heart damage, kidneys, blood vessels, and various internal readings. High blood pressure is dependent on many aspects specific to each patient such as overall health, gender, age, family history, etc. Lifestyle management plans including weight loss, nutrition and regular exercise that can help to lower high blood pressure.

C: Cholesterol

Diabetes has a tenancy to lower good cholesterol levels and raise bad cholesterol levels, which can put patients at an increased risk for heart disease and stroke. High cholesterol can lead patients to premature coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis and blood vessel disease. High cholesterol can be improved by significant lifestyle changes that patients should discuss with their docs such as eating a heart-healthy diet, maintaining regular exercise routines and eliminating smoking.

A1C SOURCE

BLOOD PRESSURE SOURCE

CHOLESTEROL SOURCE